|
The life of James H. Sutton, Jim's father, parallels the growth and
development of rodeo for nearly the entire 20th century. Born in 1899, he
died in 1991 at the age of 91.
In 1926, the Sutton family
began producing their own rodeo on the home ranch. This continued until the
1950's when James entered into a partnership with Erv Korkow that lasted
until 1968. As this time Jim became a partner with his dad forming Sutton
Rodeos and with 81 years of rodeo experience, the Sutton tradition
continues. Now in its fifth-generation, son, Steve, is co-owner and NFR
pickup man in three decades. The Suttons raise 90% of their breeding stock.
James was inducted into the
Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs, Colorado in 1982.
|
Julie and Jim Sutton
click picture to enlarge |
 The Steve Sutton Family
back from left: Brice, Steve, Brent
front: Amy and Kim
click picture to enlarge
Today Jim oversees operations and his
wife, Julie, is the publicity manager and timer for the company. Steve's
wife, Kim, and daughter, Amy also time for the company. Sons, Brent, a
sophomore at SDSU, competes on the rodeo team and also is a pickup man &
PRCA contestant in Calf roping, Steer Wrestling & Team Roping. Son,
Brice, a senior in high school also competes in 4-H & High School Rodeo
in Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling & Team Roping. Jim originated the
Wrangler Bullfights, which lasted from 1981-2001. In 1978, he also
started the Black Hills Stock Show Rodeo held annually in Rapid City.
The BHHS Rodeo celebrates its 30th Anniversary in 2007. This PRCA Rodeo
has ten times been nominated for "Indoor Rodeo of the
Year" in the PRCA winning the award in 2002 & 2003. Jim has four
times been nominated 1 of 5 for "Stock Contractor of the Year"
in the PRCA. Sutton Rodeos produced the openings at the NFR in
1995-1996, something they specialize in as far as pageantry and color.
Jim has been a National Director of the AQHA for over 35 years.
|
|
